Project Name:  Main Salmon 

Project Dates:   April 23-29 

The Salmon River cuts through the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, through deep granite canyons filled with a rich history. ITA is sending a crew to spend a week taking in the pristine wilderness and helping repair tread damage caused by effects from a wildfire and flooding along the Salmon River Trail.  The crew will take a thrilling jet boat ride from the Carey Creek boat ramp to camp at Bargamin Creek for the week. From base camp, the crew will address major tread work on the section of the trail between Bargamin Creek and Rattlesnake Creek. Working with Forest Service staff, this is a chance for some hands-on experience with big rock work!  

ITA is partnering with the Selway Bitterroot Frank Church Wilderness Foundation, who will also have a crew out for the duration. This allows us to double up efforts and resources to make a big impact on this section! This section of trail is also part of the Idaho Centennial Trail, and ITA is committed to maintaining sections of this 1000-mile trail each year.  This is a great project for those looking to get out early in the season and learn or hone in on some more advanced trail work skills for the upcoming year. 

Project information is subject to change. Crew leaders will communicate via email. Failure to respond to your crew leader may result in being dropped from the project. See our FAQs, reach out to your crew leader, or contact ITA staff at trails@idahotrailsassociation.org if you have questions. 

Trails: Salmon River Trail #96 

Itinerary: This is a Thursday – Wednesday, weeklong project.  Meeting at Carey Creek Boat Ramp early Thursday to be taken into camp.  Working Thursday – Tuesday, with a rest day as needed.  On Wednesday the jet boat returns and brings the crew back to the boat ramp.  

Food Provided by ITA: No – This project is eligible for backpacking food per diem.  More information here    

Gear Packing List: Think of the jetboat as your "mule." Crew leader will provide more information closer to the trip as wight/bulk limitations are set by the boat captain.  Gear Checklist for Backpacking Projects with Pack Support 

Crew Leader: Clay Jacobson  

Estimated Drive Time from Closest Town: 1 hour from Riggins   

Trail Map:  Click for trail map and elevation profile  

Refundable deposit: $50  

Why do I need to pay a deposit? We've had trouble with people backing out of trips at the last minute which can really affect the productivity of the overall project. By charging a refundable fee, volunteers are less likely to cancel their reservation. Refunds will not be given to volunteers that do not show up or cancel their reservation. Exceptions will be made for medical reasons or unforeseen circumstances. Volunteers can choose to donate the deposit to ITA. All donations are tax-deductible and will go towards maintaining trails throughout Idaho. If you require assistance in paying for this fee, please contact us at trails@idahotrailsassociation.org and we will waive the cost.  

Difficulty Rating 

You should have experience with backpacking and be in good hiking condition with broken-in and tested gear.  This is a remote backcountry project so injuries such as sprains and blisters or even extreme fatigue from not being properly conditioned can quickly become a big safety issue.  If you are unsure about the proper gear or about preparing for a trip, please reach out to trails@idahotrailsassociation.org.  

Volunteer Spots: 6